Acne can be a pain in the rear end, but when it’s summer acne, it’s presumably more frustrating than ever. The heat can cause anything from breakouts to cystic acne to rashes and so on, so having a rigorous morning and night regimen is key. The basics involve a face wash and moisturizer, and some of us even know how important it is to exfoliate from time to time. While this is all critical in keeping a clear face and keeping bacteria at bay, how much do we know about toner? I’ll have to admit, I never knew what the big deal was. We’ve heard things of how toners can dry out your face or be unnecessary to being essential and much needed – but after further research, I am clear (no pun intended) on what this miracle liquid/lotion does.

As told by Los Angeles skincare specialist Mila Moursi, “A toner’s function is to complete the cleansing of your skin—removing the dust, pollution, and impurities that can still be lingering after washing with a cleanser, as cleansers usually contain ingredients such as oil, which can leave a film on your face.” Did you know that we have p acnes on our face at all time? P. acnes bacteria live deep within follicles and pores, away from the surface of the skin. So their tiny and unseen, however elevated production of sebum by hyperactive sebaceous glands or blockage of the follicle can cause P. acnes bacteria to grow and multiply. So with the precise meaning of p. acnes, a toner should be one of your very best friends to rid any bacteria surfacing on your skin. It helps to clarify and cleanse the yucky stuff, which is what we should all want, right?

So, after carefully reading what are the best ones, I have compiled a list of 5 tops toners to get while summer is here. Gradually add a toner to your skincare (if you haven’t already) and see what type of results you’ll get. Take a look at the list below. (image via @hydratedho)

What does it do: Medicated formula exfoliates, reduces excess oil that can lead to breakouts. Unclogs pores and controls excess shine. When used as part of the Clear Skin System, reduces active blemishes by 37% in 3 days. For ALL Skin types. Buy it here

What does it do: A great, soothing multitasked toner that has natural treatments that cleanse, tone and soothe your skin. What I love about this toner is the price and rave reviews. It also works well as a makeup setter/refresher. Buy it here.

What does it do: This toner was recommended to me by beauty blogger Adia Adoresas one of her favorites. With my skin really acting out this summer (hence the reason I decided to write the article), I had a lightbulb moment of what I may be missing. Beauty Wateris a multitasking toner and cleansing water that creates a clean base for any skin care and makeup that follows. It can also be used as a gentle exfoliant in the morning to prep for skin care and to create a smoother surface for makeup. At night, Beauty Water can be used as a cleansing water to thoroughly remove makeup, dirt, and oil. Lavender water, rosewater, and orange fruit extract hydrate the skin, while willow bark and papaya extract sweep away dead skin cells—revealing a brighter skin tone and smoother texture. (via sephora) Buy it here.

What does it do: Infused with potent tea tree oil, purifies and tones in one step. This toner minimizes the appearance of pores and leaves skin feeling clean, toned, refreshed and visibly clearer. Buy it here.

What does it do: A beauty cult favorite, the ingredient LHA in this bottle of La Roche-Posay Effaclar toner reduces the appearance of large pores by removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. This scented toner is suited to all skin types, including sensitive and oily skin. Buy it here.